4. Whether syllogism is the great instrument of reason: first cause to doubt this.
There is one thing more which I
shall desire to be considered concerning reason; and that is, whether syllogism, as is generally thought, be the
proper instrument of it, and the usefullest way of exercising this faculty. The causes I have to doubt are these:--
First, Because syllogism serves our reason but in one only of the forementioned parts of it; and that is, to show the
connexion of the proofs in any one instance, and no more; but in this it is of no great use, since the mind can
perceive such connexion, where it really is, as easily, nay, perhaps better, without it.